Dr. John Hawrylak ND
Dr. John Hawrylak ND
Helping You Confirm or Rule Out Your Food Allergies
Helping You Confirm or Rule Out Your Food Allergies
Allergy Testing
Allergy Testing
No one knows exactly why the immune system creates antibodies to certain foods, but when it does, it results in noticeable food reactions. With allergy testing, Dr. John Hawrylak ND can help determine if you are allergic to certain food. We test for food-specific reactions to three different antibodies: IgG, IgE and IgA. Contact us in Sydney, Nova Scotia for an appointment.
The immune system defends the body against bacteria, viruses, and any other potentially harmful organisms. One of the ways it does this is by producing cells called immunoglobulins or antibodies. There are five major immunoglobulins: IgA, IgD, IgE, IgG, and IgM.
Food Allergy
Food Allergy
Only reactions to IgE are considered true food allergies. IgE reactions typically happen within minutes of exposure to, or ingestion of, food antigen. The most common IgE reactions can lead to hives, itchy watery eyes, and breathing difficulties.
To test for IgE food allergies, we require a blood draw. Please note that food allergy diagnosis can only be made by an allergist, and may involve skin prick tests or a double-blind, placebo-controlled oral food challenge.
Food Sensitivity
Food Sensitivity
Food Sensitivity is a term that commonly refers to delayed immune reactions to foods. IgG and IgA reactions to foods are generally referred to as food sensitivities. IgG and IgA food reactions can be tested using a dried blood strip sample.
Food Intolerance
Food Intolerance
This usually refers to non-immune reactions like enzyme deficiencies. For instance, people who lack the enzyme lactase have problems digesting milk. This is called lactose intolerance.